The sun is shining in Ionia County, and Doug Devries of the county's Office of Emergency Management says now it's "just a waiting game" for waterways to recede enough for officials to fully determine flood damage and for life to return to normal for area citizens.

"We're starting to assess damages to roads, to see how they fared and if they're going to need to be fixed, and also assess what kind of damage was done to homes," Devries said.

He added that the American Red Cross has clean-up kits available from the emergency shelter at the Ionia Armory for residents who need help cleaning up their homes or basements. These kits include a mop, broom, bucket, gloves, scrub brush, and cleaning chemicals. For details, call 616-459-3433, ext. 1512.

The Grand River at Ionia was measured at 23.74 feet at 1:45 p.m. Sunday. The water is still considered to be at flood stage until it drops below 21 feet.

Devries said he expects South Steele Street in Ionia to remain closed until the river goes down to 21 feet or less. But, water is starting to recede, and the parking lot at Ionia Floral is dry.

M-21 over the Maple River between Muir and Pewamo also remains closed. With the waters still high, it is impossible for MDOT to determine how much, if any, damage was sustained by the bridge and the road, Devries said.

M-21 near Lowell also remains closed.

On the bright side, Prairie Street between Lyons and Muir has reopened.

Make sure your food and water are safe. Discard items that have come in contact with floodwater, including canned goods, water bottles, plastic utensils and baby bottle nipples. When in doubt, throw it out!

Do not use water that could be contaminated to wash dishes, brush teeth, prepare food, wash hands, make ice, or make baby formula.